Anything that costs more than Rmb300 ($48 USD) can be purchased on credit. Monthly plans of 3, 6, 12, 18, or 24 months are being offered via a China Merchants Bank card. The 3, 6, and 12 month plans are interest-free; however, the 18 month plan has a 6.5% interest rate and the 24 month plan has a 8.5% interest rate.

The service is similar to Apple's offering in the U.S. which partners with Barclays but has a higher minimum purchase and quicker repayment schedule.

It's thought that the move could help Apple penetrate further into the Chinese market where its products are difficult to afford for many.